Nuance and intrigue characterize the wine, starting with a dark crimson and a ruby rim but manifested by the aromas of white pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, pine resin and crème de menthe. An entry dominated by a bright acidity, the mid-palate explores flavours of rhubarb, savoury and a hint of wild strawberry with a long finish indicative of graceful aging. This new wine from David Phinney (creator of the famous/infamous brand, The Prisoner) was aged for 9 months in oak barrels, 44% new. Pinot Noir Annapolis Vineyard rolls seductively out of the glass with a gorgeous perfume of lilacs, jasmine and fallen leaves over a core of black raspberries, pomegranate and tilled soil. Full-bodied, the palate sparks off a whole array of super-concentrated red berry and floral accents, complementing the intense earthy/savory characters, finishing wonderfully perfumed.

Food Pairing: cheese, red meat, mushroom risotto.